Delivering a true blockbuster requires precision, and UFC 319 proved Dana White & Co. know exactly how to do it. Returning to Chicago after six years—and eight previous visits—the promotion served fans a high-octane spectacle that lived up to every expectation. At the center of it all was the middleweight division’s most unpredictable showdown of the year: Dricus Du Plessis versus Khamzat Chimaev.
The relentless Chechen Wolf, thoroughly dismantled Dricus Du Plessis, the American Lion, in a five-round war that left no doubt about the outcome. From the opening bell, Chimaev imposed his will, showcasing a level of dominance that reaffirmed why he is one of the most feared fighters in the division—a reputation Jon Jones once labeled him the “scariest” competitor in the weight class.
As the final bell rang, the crowd at the Octagon erupted, and Dana White officially crowned Chimaev the new champion. For Du Plessis, his 1.7-year reign as UFC middleweight champion has come to a definitive end, but his journey is far from over. The former titleholder re-enters the contender mix following a decisive loss, with all three judges scoring the bout 50-44, leaving no room for immediate appeals or calls for a rematch.
Having already been battle-tested twice against Sean Strickland, Du Plessis’ path forward is full of intriguing possibilities. Potential matchups include Reinier de Ridder, a high-stakes rematch with Israel Adesanya, or a showdown with the loser of the upcoming Nassourdine Imavov vs. Caio Borhallo bout at UFC Paris—assuming Borhallo falls. The welterweight landscape remains fierce, but Du Plessis’ resilience ensures he’ll remain a key player in the division.
(This is developing story)
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